By Ayomide Otitoju
Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Fae has downplayed speculation linking winger Yan Diomande with a move to Liverpool, insisting the player’s immediate focus remains on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking after Ivory Coast’s 1-0 victory over Ecuador in their Group E clash in Philadelphia on Saturday, Fae joked about reports surrounding the highly rated youngster, who delivered another impressive performance for the Elephants.
“I’ve been told he’s about to sign with Liverpool,” Fae said with a smile. “I don’t know, but for now, he will focus on the World Cup, and afterwards he can think about the rest of his career.”
Diomande was one of Ivory Coast’s standout performers as the African champions secured victory through a late goal from Manchester United winger Amad Diallo. The young forward consistently troubled Ecuador’s defence and was praised by Fae for both his ability and attitude.
“He’s a kid who works hard, has a real team spirit, laughs with everyone, and listens to the technical staff whenever he’s given advice,” the coach said. “It’s easy to work with someone like Yan. He’s so talented, has what is needed, and can make the difference in a game.”
Fae also highlighted Diomande’s impact against Ecuador defender Piero Hincapié, describing the contest as a significant challenge for the talented winger.
Ahead of the match, Diomande was seen meeting American music mogul Jay-Z, whose Roc Nation Sports agency represents the Ivory Coast international. Diomande joined the agency earlier this year after signing with Roc Nation in February.
However, his move to the agency has not been without controversy. His former representatives, Maxidel Management, have reportedly initiated legal proceedings, claiming the player remains under contract with them.
Reflecting on his team’s performance, Fae acknowledged that nerves affected his players during the opening stages of the match, with all 26 members of the squad making their World Cup debut.
“It was the first World Cup match for all our players, so there was some doubt and some fear,” he said. “In the second half, we took more risks, stayed more focused and made fewer individual mistakes.”
The coach credited his attacking players, including Diomande and Diallo, for helping Ivory Coast take control after the break.
“We respected Ecuador a lot in the first half, but as the game went on, we became more confident. Our attacking players were able to get on the ball more, push Ecuador back and eventually create the opportunity that won us the match,” Fae added.
The victory gives Ivory Coast a strong start to their World Cup campaign and further enhances Diomande’s growing reputation amid continued interest from some of Europe’s leading clubs.
